When was the last time you made a copy of your website? It’s
Option #1: The free plugin backup
If you are looking for a free option to get a site backup right away, look no further than BackWPUp.
Once you’ve installed + activated the plugin, click “add new job” to create your site backup.
There numerous settings to choose from, but here are the basics to create a backup that you can use to clone your

Then run your backup + download it to your computer. You’ll only need to migrate the wp-content folder + any
But again, that’s only if you need to use your backup to restore.
This plugin is great, but it does require some nerd powers to use because you’ll need to upload the
But it is free, so there’s a bit of give + take.
Plus, finding someone that can help import your backup is easier than finding someone that can build you a new site because yours is 100% gone since you weren’t backing it up.
Option #2: The paid plugin backup
If the notes above felt too nerdy for you, this option is perfect! I
After you purchase a copy + install it, head to Backups > Settings.
- Enter your email address for the error notification recipients
- Limit the total number of local backups to 10 or less (I like having a few on hand, but there’s rarely a need to have more than a handful)
- Check the “all tables” radio button to ensure you backup your entire database
- Click “save general settings”
Then you’re all set to backup your site.
Start by going to Backups > backup + click “database only”. Let it run + then go to the same area to click “complete backup”. After the database backup is complete. the complete backup includes everything that exists on your site, so that’s the one you’ll want to download for safe keeping.
Option #3: Daily hosting account backups
If the thought of one more plugin has you going cross-eyed, I get it.
You can likely turn to your hosting company for help with backups. S
For example, Flywheel (aff link) offers daily site backups automatically. You do not have to do a thing for this to be running behind the scenes — which is awesome!
Otherwise check your hosting company’s site or call their support team to find out what your backup options are.
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